Captivating Cochin
When we are tired and want to take a peaceful and worthy distraction from the boring routine, we will start searching for the best destinations. Traveling will never go out of the list. And if we are traveling we will choose one place where we can get the most thrilling, relaxing, fascinating, adventurous, meaningful and a memorable experience.
What about getting all that in one place ?
Yup, Kerala is definitely a state which can offer the travellers ‘the all in one’ experience. National Geographic Traveler rate the Kerala as one of the ten paradise in the world. Kerala never make the visitors disappointed with it’s beautiful lush green hills, tasty and flavoury food, serene backwaters, scenic landscapes and many more.
From north to south, west to east Kerala have numerous fabulous destinations which can make anybody visit Kerala again and again.
What about visiting the ‘Queen of Arabian sea’ which is located in the heart of Kerala?
Yup, WELCOME TO COCHIN
Cochin, a city located in Kerala’s south-west coastal region. This place is popularly known as Queen of Arabian Sea as it has the natural harbour on the Arabian Sea Coast and was the centre of the world spice trade for many countries. They have many beautiful monuments and a variety of linguistic and ethnic communities including Jews, Konkinis, Gujaratis and so on.
Scenic beaches and beautiful cultural events in the evenings secure the tourist’s visit worthy. It houses everything from numerous beautiful temples to holy mosques and ancient churches.
This is the place where sun dances on the serene backwaters and the echoes of colonial history blend with the vibrant pulse of modern life, invites travellers to explore its rich tapestry of history, vibrant markets and tranquil waterways, all while savouring the essence of Kerala’s unique cultural heritage.
The city have an International airport nearby, railway stations as well as well-connected roads to the neighbouring cities which makes the travellers reach the city easily.
Best Places to visit in Cochin
Fort Kochi
A coastal gem of old, where tales of time and trade are told. Fort Kochi is known for its Dutch, Portuguese and British colonial architecture and elaborate bamboo fishing nets at Fort Kochi Beaches. It houses many historical monuments such as the St. Francis Church, the first church of Vasco da Gama, the Dutch Seminary, the China Vela and many more.
-Key Landmarks:
—Santa Cruz Basilica: A grand basilica with beautiful frescoes and a rich history.
— St. Francis Church: The oldest European Church in India, where Vasco da g Gama was originally buried.
—Mattancherry Palace: It features exquisite murals and a historical museum.
Synagogue
It was built in 1568 AD by Samuel Castiel, David Belila and Joseph Levi for the flourishing Pardesi Jewish Community in Kochi. Its a historical and cultural landmark located in Cochin. In Mattancherry’s gentle fold, where stories of old are told, a sacred space of timeless grace, the Pardesi Synagogue, a cherished place
It is located behind the Mattancherry Palace, but you need to cross the Jew town street to reach the pardesi synagogue.
Hill Palace
It was built in 1865 by the Maharaja of Cochin using his personal wealth. It is the largest archaeological museum in the state and was the imperial administrative office and official residence of the Cochin Maharaja
A magnificent historical site with a rich heritage, located in the town of tripunithura, just a short distance from the city centre.
This place offers a glimpse into the regal past of the Kochi royal family
It was handed over to the government of Kerala by the Cochin royal family in 1980.
You can peacefully explore the palace, visit the museum and also learn the beautiful local history.
Chinese Fishing Nets
Cheenavala in Malayalam, is believed to have been introduced in Kochi by Chinese explorer Zheng He, from the court of Kubla khan. It was established in the Kochi shores it self between 1350 and 1450 AD.
Iconic to Kochi, these large, cantilevered fishing nets are a unique sight and offer a glimpse into traditional fishing practices.
It looks beautiful during the sunset and one most photogenic with the beautiful backdrop of the colourful sky.
Marine Drive
The view of the setting and rising sun over the seamouth, and the gentle breeze from the Vembanad Lake has made Marine drive a beautiful destination in Kochi.
Its a quintessential part of Kochi’s charm offering a blend of natural beauty, local culture and relaxation.
It is built facing the backwaters and is a popular hangout for the local populace. Despite it’s name, no vehicles are allowed in the walkway.
Whether you are looking to unwind, take in the sight or enjoy a meal with a view, Marine Drive is a delightful destination.
Bolgatty Palace
The palace was built in 1744 by Dutch traders and later extended and gardens were landscaped around it. It served as the home of British governors, being the seat of the British resident of Cochin during the British Raj.
In 1947, when India attained independence, the palace became the property of the state and was converted into a heritage hotel resort.
It has a swimming pool, 9-hole golf centre and daily KATHAKALI performances and can be a memorable holiday destination for the tourists.
Broadway Market
A bustling market area in the heart of Kochi where you can shop for spices, textiles, souvenirs and many more. It is famous for good quality pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla and nutmeg.
If you want to buy sarees, head over to MG Road and Princess Street in Fort Kochi.
✓ Activities to do in Cochin
o Cycling in Fort Kochi:
You can rent a bicycle for a day in cheaper prices, which makes you to utilise your time maximum and enjoy to the fullest. An evening in Fort Kochi with a bicycle should be must in your bucket list.
o Watching Kathakali show:
In Cochin, many places are there where travellers can experience the traditional dance performance of Kerala, such as Kathakali which is a dance form that tells a story through it.
o Learning histories of Kochi Royal Family:
Inside the popular palaces in Cochin such as Hill palace, the history and the story of Kochi royal family is shown. By visiting those places will help you to know more about the historical part.
o Shopping in Fort Kochi:
As we all know Kerala is famous for it’s spices. Since along time Kochi harbours were the place were these spice trade used to happen. Not only spices, textiles, souvenirs, and many more things are there in Kochi for shopping .
o Visit art Galleries and cafes:
Kochi have many aesthetic and beautifully built cafes all over. You can have visit and get a mesmerizing experiences there. And art galleries in Cochin can also give you a wonderful day.
o Purchase Souvenirs and eat delicious food:
You can purchase beautiful souvenirs from Cochin and can bring that home to keep that as your travel memory.
✓ How to reach Cochin?
Cochin serves as a major gateway to major destinations in Kerala, and it has a major international airport. All the way of transportation is easily possible to reach this beautiful town.
By Air
Cochin International Airport is situated 25 km North of Kochi city at Nedumbasserry. You can easily travel to the destination by once reaching to the international airport in Cochin.
Connections: Most of the popular airlines have flights to Cochin Airport as Qatar Airways, Spice jet, Singapore Airlines, Etc.
Or else you can reach to the other major airports in India (e.g.: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Bombay…) and can take domestic flights to reach Cochin
By Train
Kochi has two major railway stations Ernakulam Town and Ernakulam Junction. After reaching to the railway station you can rent a uber and can reach the destinations around.
By Road
Kochi have well connected road to neighbouring cities and states.
✓ Visa Requirements
Ensure that you have the necessary visa required to enter India. Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter India, which can be obtained through:
o e-Visa
o Regular Visa
✓ Best time to visit Kochi
October – March: It is the best time to visit Kochi. Weather will be
pleasant and cool.
This time is ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities and exploring the cities comfortably.
However, the monsoon season can offer a unique and serene experience. But be prepared for heavy rain and travel disruptions.
✓ What to eat in Cochin
Fish Molly
Yet another classic delicacy from Kochi, Fish Molly, enjoys quite a fan following across the world. Always on demand by tourists, the versatility of this dish is in its mild flavours, unlike most fish curries in Kerala that are high on spice
Appam and Stew
Cooked in coconut milk and laced with ground black pepper, the vegetable/chicken/mutton stew leaves behind an unforgettable taste that you must definitely try with Appam. And in Kochi, you can find these at every eating joint!
Puttu Kadala
For a Malayali nothing is more comforting than a piping hot plate of Puttu and Kadala curry for breakfast.